How Will They See?

If you know that He is righteous, you know this as well: everyone who does what is right has been born of Him. - 1 John 2:29

I think that one of the biggest problems with the church today may just be the people who claim to be a part of it. What sets those who are the local "church," the visible Body of Christ, apart from the rest of the world? Unfortunately, it seems, not that much.

Did you know that often one of the greatest arguments (from those in other religions) against conversion is the unrighteousness they observe in those who claim to be Christians? When we were overseas, it was even suggested that we should employ persons of another religion, because they were often more faithful and trustworthy than "les chrétiens!"

How can we claim to know Christ, how can we claim to be His children, if we do not resemble Him in His righteousness? According to John, it seems that we cannot, and should not make that claim if there is no resemblance. If we are indeed no different in attitude and action than the rest of the world, then how will this world ever see the hope of His glory?

There are two sorts of hypocrites; ones that are deceived with their outward morality and external religion; and the others; those that are deceived with false discoveries and elevation; which often cry down works, and men's own righteousness, and talk much of free grace; but at the same time make righteousness of their discoveries, and of their humiliation, and exalt themselves to heaven with them. - Jonathan Edwards